BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible (2007–2013): Open-Top Joy With Everyday Usability
I’ve always had a soft spot for the BMW 3 Series coupes, but the BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible adds something you can’t measure on a spec sheet: that moment when the roof folds away and the whole world becomes your cabin. Roof down, evening air, six cylinders humming — you get the idea. I noticed right away how grown-up it feels for a premium convertible: solid, quiet on the highway, and genuinely usable every day, not just for sunny Sundays.
Why the BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible Still Turns Heads
Part of the appeal is balance. Even when I tried it on rough roads, the E93 shrugged off shakes better than most convertibles of its time. Hydraulic steering (remember that?) gives you just enough road feel, and the chassis stays tidy when you lean on it. It’s a car that makes a coastal cruise feel special but won’t punish you on the commute.
- Engines worth waking up early for: 328i (230 hp), 335i (300 hp, 300 lb-ft), and the 335is (320 hp, up to 370 lb-ft on overboost). 0–60 mph ranges from about 7.0 seconds (328i auto) to low 5s (335is).
- Refined cabin: real metal switchgear, quality leathers, and proper four-seat space for short trips — kids in the back will call shotgun… briefly.
- Hardtop practicality: coupe-quiet with the roof up, sun-on-forearms with it down. Trunk’s decent with the roof up; with it stowed, plan your luggage like Tetris.
- Tech that aged surprisingly well: LCI cars (2010-on) got the quicker, cleaner CIC iDrive. Bluetooth calling is common; streaming depends on spec/Combox.
What years are E93?
The BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible ran from 2007 to 2013. Over that span it picked up meaningful refinements in performance, infotainment, and efficiency — the kind you feel even in daily driving.
What is an E93 BMW?
E93 is BMW-speak for the 2007–2013 3 Series Convertible. The “E” stands for “Entwicklung” (development), and “93” is the internal code for this specific body style in the E9x family. If it’s a factory hardtop convertible 3er from this era, you’re looking at an E93.
What year is the BMW E93 LCI?
The LCI (Life Cycle Impulse — BMW’s fancy word for facelift) arrived for 2010. You’ll spot fresher lights and trim, while inside the tech took a leap. If you want the quicker, prettier iDrive, aim for an LCI car.
Which model is my BMW 3 Series?
Check the VIN. It decodes the model, year, engine, and more. If you’re shopping, bring a VIN decoder and a flashlight — badges can lie, data doesn’t.
BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible vs Rivals: Then and Now
I’ve parked the E93 next to its period rivals more times than I can count. The BMW usually feels the most cohesive to drive, even if competitors edged it on comfort or cabin glitz.
| Car | Roof Type | Power (approx.) | 0–60 mph (approx.) | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible (2007–2013) | Retractable hardtop | 230–320 hp (US); some markets offered diesels | ~7.0–5.3 sec | Best steering feel, tight chassis, coupe-quiet with roof up |
| Audi A5 Cabriolet (B8) | Soft top | 211–333 hp | ~7.0–5.4 sec | Slick interior, calm ride, less steering feedback |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) | Soft top | 268–402 hp | ~6.9–5.2 sec | Relaxed luxury, wind management ace, cushy seats |
| Volvo C70 | Retractable hardtop | 227–250 hp | ~7.5–7.0 sec | Comfy, safe, unhurried — a seaside condo on wheels |
Living With It: The Good, The Quirky, The Real
Real talk. With the top up, it’s quiet enough to hear your kids arguing in the back about who took the last snack. The front seats are long-drive friendly, visibility is better than you’d think, and the boot fits weekend bags with the roof up. Roof down, that same boot wants you to pack like a minimalist. The wind buffer works, though friends will need to choose between back seats and the deflector — not both.
Early iDrive can feel laggy by today’s standards, and the nav graphics are, well, vintage BMW. LCI cars fix most of that. Ride quality on 19s borders firm on beat-up city streets; I prefer 18s for the sweet spot. None of it’s a deal-breaker — it just feels like a proper driver’s car that happens to be a luxury convertible, not the other way around.
Feature Highlights That Still Matter
- Retractable hardtop transforms from coupe to open-air in about 22 seconds.
- Hydraulic steering for natural feel and precise placement.
- Available sport seats with extendable thigh support — brilliant on long trips.
- Strong, characterful straight-six engines with real-world punch.
- Safety kit includes stability control, multiple airbags, and available adaptive headlights.
Upgrade Your Cabin: Floor Mats That Fit Like OEM (And Look Better)
I’m picky about interiors — tiny things make a big difference. Good floor mats matter, especially in a convertible that invites sand, leaves, and everything else. The tailored sets from AutoWin fit the BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible like they were drawn with a laser — tight edges, proper anchors, easy to clean. A few owners mentioned to me they appreciated the grip in wet seasons and the way the color accents livened up black cabins.
Pick materials and finishes that suit your life — daily commuter? Go durable and textured. Weekend sunrise chaser? Treat yourself to something with a subtle stripe. Either way, installation’s a two-coffee job.
Is the BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible Still Worth It?
Absolutely — if you want a luxury convertible that still feels like a driver’s car. The BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible strikes a rare balance: charm and steering feel without giving up daily refinement. Find a well-kept example, keep up with maintenance, and it’ll reward you every time you drop the top.
FAQ: BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible
How reliable is the E93?
Well-maintained cars do well. Early N54 335i models can have HPFP/injector issues and turbo wastegate rattle; many were addressed under warranty. Check roof operation, trunk drains, and cooling-system service history.
Which engine should I buy?
The 328i is simpler and smooth; the 335i is fast and tunable; the 335is is the sweet, punchy spot if you can find one. In some markets, diesels offer strong torque and better economy.
Can adults fit in the back?
Short trips, yes. Knees may brush the front seats, but it’s usable in a way some premium convertibles aren’t.
How practical is the trunk?
Roof up: weekend-friendly. Roof down: pack soft bags and use the cargo partition to avoid surprises.
What should I look for on a test drive?
Cycle the roof multiple times, listen for squeaks, verify iDrive functions, and check for any hesitation under boost on turbo models. A pre-purchase inspection is money well spent.
